Design

AUM Architects reimagine the glamorous role of tiles in a Mumbai retail store

JAN 18, 2024 | By Maheshwari Vickyraj
Focus lighting provides an exquisite and harmonious mood; Photography by Evolve Studio and Styling by Sonali Pandit
Art by Abaca, carpets and rugs by Jaipur Rugs and OBEETEE, lighting from Focus Lighting and veneer by Jalaram, furniture from Belmun, Trezure, and Ikea, upholstery by Lavie Furnishings, glass and mirror by Royal glass; Photography by Evolve Studio
Art by Abaca, veneer by Jalaraam, lighting from Focus Lighting, furniture by Belmun, Trezure, and Ikea, upholstery by Lavie Furnishings; Photography by Evolve Studio

Imagine being swept away into the pulsating heart of Mumbai, where a lavish storefront of 6,800 sq ft waits to embrace you—a haven for those smitten with the allure of tiles and the artistry of interior design. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself navigating through an immersive layout that feels like a personalised maze. A design aficionado’s dream come true, crafted by Manish Dikshit of AUM Architects alongside Sonali Pandit, Nachiket Borawake and Rhea Mali. 

Art by Abaca, carpets and rugs from Jaipur Rugs and OBEETEE, lighting from Focus Lighting with furniture from Belmun, Trezure, and Ikea, leather cladding by Belmun Fabrics, upholstery by Lavie Furnishings, glass and mirror by Royal glass; Photography by Evolve Studio and Styling by Sonali Pandit

Craftsmanship unveiled

It all started with the idea for a showroom that goes beyond mere square footage; a concept that would take visitors on an adventure and be a poetic tribute to the design process’s ability to change lives, and a celebration of the enduring charm of high-end tiles.  

A realm of limitless imagination

Step into this showroom, and your imagination will reign supreme. The careful orchestration and artistry are woven into every corner of this space, and it echoes a commitment to unveiling the boundless versatility of tiles. As you wander through the intricately designed labyrinth, you encounter a succession of spellbinding scenes, each a magnificent tribute to the limitless potential of tiles in shaping interior design.

AUM Architects
Veneer by Jalaram, lighting from Focus Lighting with furniture from Belmun, Trezure, and Ikea, ​​TOTO and Hansgrohe bath fixtures with Hafele and Priya Architecture hardware; Photography by Evolve Studio

The living room showcase, serves as a testament to the ingenious fusion of tiles into everyday living spaces. Shutter panels adorned with tiles seamlessly blend into the surrounding decor, crafting an atmosphere of refined harmony. It’s a magical spectacle that dispels any reservations about the compatibility of tiles with contemporary, high-end interiors.

AUM Architects
Veneer by Jalaram, lighting from Focus Lighting with furniture from Belmun, Trezure, and Ikea, ​​TOTO and Hansgrohe bath fixtures with Hafele and Priya Architecture hardware, glass & mirror by Royal glass; Photography by Evolve Studio

A resplendent centrepiece stands in the kitchen, showcasing a storage unit entirely crafted from tiles. This innovative display not only highlights the exceptional durability of these materials but also introduces an element of sophisticated luxury to a typically overlooked area of the home. The juxtaposition of sleek, modern cabinetry against the intricate textures of the tiles speaks volumes about the design team’s unparalleled creativity.

Furniture from Belmun, Trezure, and Ikea, ​​TOTO and Hansgrohe bath fixtures with Hafele and Priya Architecture hardware, upholstery by Lavie Furnishings; Photography by Evolve Studio

A gracefully curved staircase, adorned with meticulously bent tiles, unfolds as a visual symphony of fluidity and grace. This installation transcends the conventional boundaries of tile application, showcasing their seamless adaptability to even the most challenging architectural features. The result is a breathtaking fusion of form and function, where aesthetics seamlessly meet engineering excellence.

AUM Architects
Lighting from Focus Lighting and veneer by Jalaram, with furniture by Belmun, Trezure, and Ikea, TOTO and Hansgrohe bath fixtures with Hafele and Priya Architecture hardware; Photography by Evolve Studio

Textures decoded

Tiles of diverse textures and finishes replace entire surfaces, presenting a captivating array of possibilities. From the understated elegance of matte finishes to the opulent allure of polished tiles, each exhibit serves as a testament to the limitless design choices available to discerning clients. In every nook of this extraordinary space, you are invited to witness the union of artistry and innovation as tiles transcend their utilitarian origins to emerge as masterpieces in their own right. The showroom stands as a beacon of inspiration, urging us all to reimagine the role of tiles in the grand tapestry of interior design.

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